Split, a coastal city in Croatia, has long been a magnet for party-seeking tourists, especially during major music festivals like Ultra Europe. However, local residents are increasingly expressing their frustration over the impact of this tourism on their daily lives and the economy.
“Lots of younger people come for that—they’re not buyers, they’re only here for partying and alcohol, not islands or tours,” said Vana, an employee at a local cruise company. This influx of short-term visitors has contributed to skyrocketing rental prices, with average rents now ranging between €700 and €800, a significant burden considering the average monthly salary in Split is around €1,000. “It’s becoming harder for younger people to find a flat, start their lives, or have a family,” Vana added, noting that while short-term letting provides extra income in the winter, it becomes prohibitively expensive during the summer months.
In response to rising anti-social behaviors linked to the partying scene, city officials have increased police presence to address issues like public drinking and inappropriate behavior. “We don’t want to be known as a party destination,” said Veronica, a recent graduate and tour operator. “There used to be more restaurants and cafes serving local food, but now they mostly serve tourist fare.”
The transformation of Split’s landscape is evident to many. “The promenade had a lot more local cafes and restaurants. Now it’s mostly Italian and burger places, even though Croatians excel at their own cuisine,” remarked Luce, another local tour operator. The iconic Diocletian’s Palace area, once home to independent shops, has shifted to predominantly short-term rentals catering to tourists.
Tourism workers acknowledge the benefits of the influx but remain concerned about its downsides. “Tourism in Split is good, especially in the Old Town, which has seen significant renovations,” said Ivana, a guesthouse receptionist. However, she added, many locals have been displaced from their homes in the Old Town due to rising property costs.
Veronica observed a noticeable change in the type of tourists visiting. “Locals don’t like to hang out in the city center much because it’s so full and expensive. We mostly spread out across Split,” she explained. She reminisced about the past, saying, “There used to be a lot nicer, polite tourists with families. We have no problem with tourists like this, but this summer, they were nowhere to be seen.”
Despite the challenges, residents recognize the importance of tourism to Split’s economy. “We depend almost entirely on tourism, which isn’t ideal, but it is what it is,” said a local shopkeeper. Many residents rely on the summer season for their annual income, while the winter months bring significantly fewer visitors and job opportunities.
In light of these tensions, local authorities are taking steps to manage tourism more sustainably. The Split Tourist Board commissioned a study in 2022 to assess the city’s capacity to handle the influx of 900,000 tourists annually. Based on these findings, officials are beginning to regulate accommodation options and have increased security measures to address anti-social behavior.
The city is also promoting responsible tourism through initiatives like the “Respect & Enjoy” campaign, aimed at encouraging visitors to be mindful of local customs and to travel outside peak seasons. The Tourist Board of Split emphasized their commitment to balancing a thriving tourism industry with the quality of life for residents, striving for sustainable development that benefits both tourists and locals alike.
